Mastering the New PTE Speaking Format: August 2025 Exam Update Uncovered

 

From August 7th, 2025, the PTE Academic exam is getting a practical upgrade—with two new Speaking tasks aimed at real-world communication. Whether you’re planning to study abroad or apply for professional roles, this change is a big deal. To help you stay ahead, we’ve gathered the most useful PTE Academic New Speaking Tips that will get you comfortable, confident, and ready for the new format. Let’s walk through what’s changing—and how you can prepare.

🆕 What’s New in PTE Speaking from August 2025?

Pearson is introducing two new Speaking tasks:

Summarize Group Discussion

Respond to a Situation

These aren’t just extra questions—they’re designed to test how well you can use English naturally in conversations, discussions, and professional exchanges.

With these updates, you’ll be evaluated on:

Listening comprehension in real-time conversations

Fluent, relevant, and polite spoken responses

Using appropriate tone for academic or workplace settings

🗣️ Task 1: Summarize Group Discussion

🎧 What’s This Task About?

You’ll hear a 2–3 minute group discussion involving multiple speakers. After listening, your job is to summarize it in your own words, using 50–70 words. It’s all about capturing the key points clearly and neutrally.

🧠 What Skills Are Tested?

Listening for multiple opinions

Distinguishing main ideas from side comments

Structuring a short, formal summary

✅ How to Approach It

Use shorthand note-taking (e.g., initials for speakers)

Listen for linking phrases like “however,” “for example,” or “on the other hand”

Start with: “The discussion focused on…”

Mention each speaker’s point and end with a summary line

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t add your own opinion

Don’t combine multiple speakers into one

Avoid casual words like “stuff,” “things,” or slang

🧏 Task 2: Respond to a Situation

🎙️ What You’ll Get

You’ll hear a short scenario—a request, complaint, or problem—and then get a prompt on the screen. You’ll have 10 seconds to prepare and 40 seconds to respond.

🧠 Skills You’re Being Tested On

Quick understanding of the situation

Choosing the right words to respond clearly and respectfully

Keeping a steady, fluent tone

✅ Simple 3-Step Response Method

Acknowledge the issue: “I understand what you're saying.”

Respond with an action: “I'll check with the team and update you.”

Close politely: “Thanks for your patience.”

🚫 What Not to Do

Don’t speak off-topic or add unrelated details

Avoid stiff or overly rehearsed responses

Don’t use complicated words if they don’t fit the context

🎯 Why This Update Matters

The new tasks aren’t about memorization—they’re about real English communication.

These changes test your ability to:

Summarize group conversations

Think and speak on the spot

Interact the way you would in school or work

It’s about preparing you for success in the real world—not just passing an exam.

📌 PTE Academic New Speaking Tips

Use these tried-and-true tips to improve your performance on the new speaking tasks:

🎧 Tip 1: Listen Like a Pro

Practice with real discussions, like TED Talks or panel interviews

Focus on tone, attitude, and changes in opinions

🧱 Tip 2: Organize Your Response

Use a basic three-part structure:

Intro – What is the issue or discussion about?

Main Message – What were the key points or solution?

Ending – A polite wrap-up sentence

⏱️ Tip 3: Practice with a Timer

Use phone apps or stopwatch tools

Get used to thinking and speaking within 40 seconds

🧍 Tip 4: Speak Professionally

Avoid casual or emotional phrases

Use formal connectors like “Moreover,” “As a result,” “In contrast”

🎤 Tip 5: Shadow and Repeat

Repeat sentences from native English speakers

Pay attention to rhythm, pauses, and stress patterns

📚 Sample Phrases & Vocabulary Toolkit

Group Discussion Phrases:

“The discussion focused on…”

“One participant argued that…”

“In the end, the group appeared divided on the issue.”

Responding to Situations:

“I understand your concern.”

“Let me look into that and get back to you.”

“Would it be alright if I followed up by email?”

🛠️ Helpful Resources to Prepare

YouTube Channels:

PTE Tutorials

E2 PTE

Apps to Practice:

AI Speaking Coach

PTE Tools

Daily Habits That Work:

Read news articles aloud

Record yourself answering prompts

Do weekly mock speaking tests

✅ Final Thoughts: Ready for the August 2025 PTE?

The August 2025 PTE update brings a more practical and realistic twist to the Speaking section. If you want to stand out, don’t just focus on grammar—work on becoming a confident, flexible communicator.

Start applying these PTE Academic New Speaking Tips now so you’ll feel prepared on test day. Practice consistently, speak naturally, and think clearly under pressure.

This is your moment to show the world how well you use English—not just how well you know it.